Electricity from micro-hydropower is a clean, safe, emission free, renewable energy.  With proper development it is reliable, requires low maintenance, and results in a lower cost per kW than other options such as:  gasoline, diesel, or wind generators, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, or the environmental damage and/or expense of bringing the grid from afar.  Afghan communities can help install, operate, and maintain these power plants.  Community participation, self-sufficiency, and the benefits of reliable lights bring pride, stability, and unity to communities.  Power can be used for lights, radio, TV, computers, small industry (sewing machines, agricultural processing), and large community water heaters.  Especially benefited are women and children who no longer face the smell, smoke, danger, inconvenience, and cost of lanterns.  A consistent water supply allows power generation 24 hours/day even when there is no sun or wind.  The generating equipment produces low noise and can be built so it is not obstructive or abusive to the environment.  Water use is “non-consumptive” in that the water flowing through the turbine returns to the river or stream it originated from and can be reused for agricultural irrigation purposes.